HS2 needs to be made a reality as soon as possible, according to the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC).

Speaking ahead of the second reading of the HS2 hybrid bill, BCC executive director of commerce Dr Adam Marshall said the country's rail network has been chronically overstretched for decades. Freight and passengers require a more radical solution than continuing to patch up the existing network.

"HS2 must proceed, as it will deliver transformational capacity to Britain's rail networks, not to mention economic benefits including jobs, orders for UK firms, skills investment and regeneration," he commented.

Dr Marshall called on parties to put aside their differences and make a concerted effort to ensure rapid progress is made on the infrastructure upgrade.

However, the spokesman warned that the government's focus on HS2 must not come at the expense of other infrastructure projects. "Sustained and systematic investment" is necessary to create and maintain jobs and spur economic growth, he added.

Last month, business groups welcomed the government's proposals to accelerate delivery of the HS2 project, as plans were announced to complete the Crewe section of the line sooner than originally planned.